The design of very small high quality loudspeakers involves a difficult compromise between power handling capacity, sensitivity, low frequency limit and the volume of the box, which, in the Cresta, was carefully chosen with regard to acoustical performance rather than spectacular miniaturisation. Following its release in 1967, it went on to set new standards for sound quality in a compact enclosure.

The two drive units in this system were entirely new designs, both incorporating fresh technical features. The 5” diameter B110 bass midrange unit was the first commercially available bextrene coned drive unit giving a smoothness of response unobtainable with the traditional paper diaphragms of the day. It was also fitted with a neoprene surround and nylon rear suspension, permitting very large linear excursions, necessary when handling high power.

The new T27 tweeter had a ¾” hemispherical diaphragm diaphragm of Melinex, which not only gave a smooth response to 30kHz but also exhibited a very wide polar radiation pattern. The reproduction from the Cresta system was therefore not at all directional, giving wonderfully sweet and realistic string tone and notable sharp stereo images. Cresta made a significant step forward in that it not only covered the full frequency range with low distortion but that it achieved a new standard of clarity and musicality in a diminutive enclosure.

The same B110 and T27 drivers first used in the Cresta system were famously combined also in the BBC LS3/5 broadcast monitor, which in the mass produced ‘A’ version developed a very high reputation and over 50,000 pairs were sold worldwide.

The cabinet was finished in Teak or Walnut veneer with a woven brown grille.